The Vermont Genealogy Library is cooperating with the Vermont Historical Society (VHS) to provide three online genealogy workshops this summer on the VHS website.
Lynn Johnson will lead off on June 13th with “Genealogy 101,” followed by Ed McGuire presenting “Using DNA for Genealogy” on July 11th and ending on August 8th with “Using Newspapers for Genealogy” by Marcie Crocker.
These 90 minute workshops cost $10 individually or $25 for the series but our members can attend for free.
June 13: “Genealogy 101” with Lynn Johnson
Get started on your genealogy quest by learning practices for conducting sound research and how to avoid mistakes that can lead you astray. Lynn will teach you where to source records online and in local repositories and how to organize your findings.
Lynn Johnson was an elementary school teacher for 18 years and later worked at the Book Rack and Children’s Pages. She became fascinated by the stories of her ancestors and how their lives fit into history. She currently handles publicity and acquisitions for the Vermont French-Canadian Genealogical Society and volunteers at their library.
July 11: “Using DNA for Genealogy” with Ed McGuire
DNA testing is a valuable tool for investigating your family history when combined with genealogical research. In this session you will learn about available DNA tests including the companies that provide them and associated costs. Ed will also discuss privacy issues, ethical considerations, and what to avoid.
Ed McGuire is a frequent speaker on genealogy research, DNA testing, and Irish family history at the Vermont Genealogy Library. His personal interests include his family’s New England, New York, and Quebec roots as well as Irish, English, French, and German ancestry.
August 8: “Using Newspapers for Genealogy” with Marcie Crocker
When census and vital records fail to locate an ancestor newspapers can be an amazing source of information. Newspapers reveal details like birth announcements, engagements, court cases, and death notices Today, digital newspapers make this research more efficient. In this class, Marcie will discuss online newspaper options, both free and subscription-based, and share tips and tricks for navigating these sites with maximum results.
Marcie Crocker is the president of the Vermont French-Canadian Genealogical Society and a seasoned genealogist. Marcie advises our library’s visitors on FindMyPast, FamilySearch, and other online databases.